Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, January 2017, doi:10.1111/1753-6405.12641
Objectives: To examine access and equity to induced abortion services in Australia, including factors associated with presenting beyond nine weeks gestation.
Methods: Cross-sectional survey of 2,326 women aged 16+ years attending for an abortion at 14 Dr Marie clinics. Associations with later presentation assessed using multivariate logistic regression.
Conclusions: Abortion costs are substantial, increase at later gestations, and are a financial strain for many women. Poor knowledge, geographical and financial barriers restrict method choice.
Implications for public health: Policy reform should focus on reducing costs and enhancing early access.
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